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Resident Spotlight: Dr. Andrea Tsatalis

Compiled by Dr. Austyn Grissom                                                    

Dr. Andrea Tsatalis is a second-year resident at Marquette University. The Paper Point’s Dr. Austyn Grissom recently caught up with her to learn more about her passion for teaching, hobbies and journey to endo.

The Paper Point: Thanks for taking time to do this interview, Doc! Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Dr. Tsatalis: I was born to a “Big Fat Greek Family” comprised of immigrants and clinicians (both in the medical and dental fields) alike.  My father is a diagnostic radiologist and my mother is a kindergarten teacher—a true epitome of the right and left sides of the brain working together.  Growing up in a household where diversity, education, and human welfare were of paramount importance, led me to the point I am today.

The Paper Point: I love that! Did you always know that you were going to pursue dentistry, or did you ever consider following in the footsteps of either of your parents?

Dr. Tsatalis: Growing up, I was in awe of the intellectual synergy found in hospitals: the real-time innovation that developed as physicians from different specialties collaborated in hallways, cafeterias, and lounges.  I synchronously admired the power of education and transformative effect teachers have on their students’ lives.  As endodontists we are called to both treat and teach, to collaborate with colleagues and inspire future generations…so in a way I indirectly followed both of my parents’ footsteps!

The Paper Point: What influenced your decision to pursue endodontics?

Dr. Tsatalis: My knowledge of endodontics was slim-to-none prior to dental school and it wasn’t until midway through my education that I decided to pursue a career in endo. I was immediately enthralled by the precision, delicacy, and science of endodontics—a level of technicality I had yet to witness elsewhere in dentistry.  The opportunity to be a compassionate and comforting clinician during an intimidating experience was a unique role I wanted to fill and feel honored to assume today.

The Paper Point: Just from following your Instagram page (@dr.andrea.endo), your passion for teaching and mentoring dental students is so evident. I know firsthand how much time it takes to put posts and stories together and your content is next level. Any motivating factors?

Dr. Tsatalis: I love lecturing and sharing my passion for endodontics with others.  During residency, I conducted research in endodontic education that was recently published in the Journal of Dental Education!  To better reach students outside of the classroom, I decided to make an “Endo Instagram,” @dr.andrea.endo, earlier this year.  The account has grown since then and I really enjoy the sense of community, creativity, and fun that I find in the endo social media world.

The Paper Point: Incredible! There is such a need for people like you in dental education. What’s up next for you following graduation?

Dr. Tsatalis: After graduation, I’m moving to Florida to thaw out after these cold Wisconsin winters! I truly feel honored to be in a position where I can alleviate acute patient pain using both my hands and my brain.  After getting settled, I plan on teaching part-time to continue my involvement in endodontic education/mentorship.

The Paper Point: Florida is awesome- I think you are going to love it there! When you aren’t busy saving teeth, what do you enjoy doing with your time?

Dr. Tsatalis: I’m a huge foodie—I love to cook, experiment with cuisine from other cultures, and explore new restaurants.  In my free time I enjoy being in nature with friends/family & landscape painting.

The Paper Point: Before we go, do you have any final words of wisdom that you would like to share with our readers? 

Dr. Tsatalis: Weeks away from graduation, I’ve been reflecting on how fortunate I’ve been to be surrounded by excellent mentors, patients, and peers during my residency experience.  They’ve made me proud to be an endodontist and motivated/inspired me countless times.  There’s a Greek concept that reflects this feeling, called “philotimo” that is considered the highest of Greek values; wherein we’re called to “be good” … to show unconditional love, respect, and gratitude to our community, to have pride in ourselves, our work, and our families. Philotimo is a core concept of who I think we all strive to be as endodontists and is certainly a torch I plan to carry into this next chapter ahead.

Dr. Austyn Grissom is a member of the AAE’s Resident and New Practitioner Committee.